Trees play an important part of our outdoor spaces in Britain, providing shade and shelter to wildlife, and adding character to gardens, streets and countryside. Sometimes though you may have overgrown branches that require trimming.
However, it is important to know what regulations exist before reaching for your saw! Even trees fully contained within your garden may be protected by law.
By knowing what is permitted, what permissions are required, and taking wildlife into consideration you can ensure you take proper care of your trees.
Can Homeowners Trim Their Trees?
As long as your trees aren’t protected by law, you will generally be able to trim any trees on your property.
Whilst small branches overhanging your garden pathway or too close to the fence can be easily trimmed, larger trees can often cause problems if they are overhanging buildings or neighboring properties.
Also, depending on what is being trimmed can cause issues. Whilst trimming dead branches may not cause any issues, you should not be over-trimming and affecting the health of your tree.
Larger trees can often be trimmed by professionals like Red Oak Tree Pruning. They will be able to advise you on what can be done to your overgrown branches and help to make sure the correct trimming is carried out to keep your tree in good condition.
Before doing anything, it is worth double-checking if your tree has a Tree Preservation Order.
Tree Preservation Orders
A Tree Preservation Order (commonly known as a TPO) protects certain trees due to their importance to your local area.
In England, Local Planning Authorities can apply TPO’s to individual trees, groups of trees or woodland areas. This means they cannot be cut down, topped or lopped without written permission.
Trees do not have to be particularly old or rare to be protected. If they contribute to the look and character of your area they may be protected.
If you are unsure if your tree has a TPO, it is worth contacting your local council.
Other areas may have similar protections for trees; however, the legislation differs between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Trees In Conservation Areas
Trees in Conservation Areas may have restrictions applied.
In England, you will generally need to give 6 weeks written notice to your local planning authority.
This gives your local council time to decide if your tree should be given extra protection.
There are some exceptions, particularly for smaller trees and certain types of work. However, you should not assume that small trimming will be exempt.
Other areas of the country may have different rules, so it is best to check with your local authority.
Overhanging Branches into Neighbor’s Garden
Overhanging branches are often a cause for arguments between neighbors.
In England and Wales, you will generally have a common law right to trim any branches that are overhanging your property. However, you must not go outside of the boundary and must not violate any other laws.
You do not have permission to enter your neighbor’s garden.
Tree Preservation Orders and conservation area restrictions may still apply.
It is usually best to talk to the owner of the tree to see if they can be trimmed. Being polite can help neighbors come to an agreement on what can be done.
Nesting Birds & Wildlife Protection
Trees provide a vital habitat for many animals including birds, bats and insects.
Before trimming your tree, you should check if there are any nesting birds or protected species.
Active wild bird nests are protected by law and if you cause damage or destruction to them, you could face legal consequences. Bats and their roosts are also protected by law.
Whilst Spring and Summer are very important times of year for nesting birds, there is no specific date when you can carry out work on your tree.
If your tree has cavities, cracks or other features that could house bats you may need specialist ecological advice.
Sometimes it is best to leave until later.
Will You Need Council Permission?
If your tree is protected by a TPO or in a conservation area you may need permission from your council.
You may need to apply for permission to carry out work on your protected tree, explaining what you wish to do and why.
Your council may allow you to carry out the work, put conditions on the work or refuse.
There are some exceptions to this, including work on dead branches or trees that pose an imminent risk of serious harm. However, you may need to provide specific notice.
Make sure you know what the rules are for your tree. Just because it is damaged or diseased doesn’t mean you can just cut it.
If it is part of a larger woodland or felling project there may be extra forestry regulations to consider.
Common Tree Pruning Mistakes
Trimming your tree can help improve it, however incorrect trimming can cause long term issues.
One common mistake is to over prune your tree. This will cause stress and cause your tree to produce vigorous growth that may not be well attached.
Cutting large branches too close to the trunk or leaving long stumps can also cause issues with the tree’s natural healing process.
Topping your tree can cause weak growth and cause rot. This is when you cut back large branches without consideration to the natural shape of the tree.
Remember that just because your tree is large doesn’t mean it needs trimming.
Depending on the species, condition, location and reason for trimming will determine the best way to proceed.
When To Use a Professional Tree Surgeon
Small amounts of trimming can be carried out safely from the ground using the correct tools.
However larger trees can often be tricky. Large branches, hard to reach and working close to buildings or overhead cables all require specialist knowledge and equipment.
A qualified tree surgeon will be able to assess your tree and advise what is the best way to prune. They will be able to advise you on what is best for your tree, whether it be crown reduction, crown lifting or selective branch cutting.
If your tree shows any signs of decay, damaged limbs or unusual lean it is a good idea to get professional advice.
Before using a contractor make sure they have the correct experience, insurance and knowledge of tree protections.
A responsible contractor should also be happy to explain why certain work is required.
Things To Consider Before Booking Tree Pruning
Before booking any tree work consider:
Is the tree yours? Double-check to make sure it is your tree.
Check for protections – Contact your local council to see if your tree has a TPO or is in a conservation area.
Wildlife – Check for nesting birds and potential bat roosts.
What is the issue? Are you concerned about the safety of the tree, overhanging, broken branches or overgrowth?
Don’t over prune – Only prune what is necessary.
Ensure they have the correct experience and insurance.
Keep records – Keep any permission from the council, professional advice and what work was carried out.
Taking your time to consider these points can help to prevent damage to your trees and reduce any legal or safety issues.
Taking Care of Our Trees in Britain
Trees provide character to our gardens, parks and outdoor areas, whilst also providing a home to wildlife. They can be a valuable asset to our landscapes for many generations.
Sometimes trimming is required. However, it is important to consider the condition of your tree and what issues you are facing.
By considering local restrictions, wildlife protection and choosing the correct trimming methods you can ensure your trees are well maintained.
With careful planning and professional advice where necessary you can help keep your outdoor areas safe and your trees healthy in the long term.
